Soft & Chewy Oatmeal Raisin Cookies Recipe

The smell of fresh cookies makes us feel cozy and nostalgic. The oatmeal raisin cookie was always there for us, a treat that brought us together. Now, I’m excited to share a recipe that brings back those memories. It’s soft, chewy, with a hint of cinnamon that melts in your mouth.

This recipe has been passed down for generations, perfected over time. It’s perfect for a cozy night or a thoughtful gift. These homemade oatmeal raisin cookies will make everyone’s day brighter. Get ready to taste the best oatmeal cookies ever!

Why These Oatmeal Raisin Cookies Are Irresistible

Get ready to fall in love with these oatmeal raisin cookies. They have the perfect mix of texture and taste. Soft in the middle and a bit crunchy outside, they’re the ultimate treat.

Perfect Texture and Flavor Balance

The secret to these cookies is the perfect mix of ingredients. Brown sugar, warm spices, and vanilla create a rich flavor. The oats add a nice texture, and the raisins burst with sweetness in every bite.

Family-Favorite Recipe

These cookies have been loved for generations. Many say they’re the “best cookies ever.” Passed down and perfected, they’re a timeless classic.

Holiday Gift-Worthy Cookies

These cookies are perfect for holiday gifts. They taste amazing and look great in festive packaging. They’re a great addition to any holiday spread or gift basket.

“These are the best oatmeal raisin cookies I’ve ever tasted! The texture is just perfect, and the flavor is simply divine.”

Essential Ingredients for Perfect Oatmeal Cookies

To make the perfect oatmeal cookies, you need the right mix of ingredients. The oatmeal cookie ingredients, baking essentials, and cookie recipe components are crucial. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Rolled oats: Quick-cooking oats make the cookies soft and chewy. Whole rolled oats give a heartier texture.
• Raisins: Both regular and golden raisins add sweetness to the cookies.
• Unsalted butter: Softened butter is key for creaming with sugars, creating the cookie’s structure.
• Brown sugar and granulated sugar: This mix enhances flavor, softness, and chewiness.
• All-purpose flour: It’s the base for the cookie dough.
• Baking soda: It helps the cookies rise and spread perfectly.
• Egg: It binds the ingredients for a tender cookie.
• Vanilla extract: Adds a warm, comforting flavor.
• Cinnamon and nutmeg: These spices give a cozy, autumnal taste.

For a healthier option, use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour. You can also make an eggless version with a flax “egg.”

“The combination of oats, raisins, and warming spices creates a cookie that’s hard to resist.”

With these oatmeal cookie ingredients, baking essentials, and cookie recipe components, you’re ready to bake delicious oatmeal raisin cookies.

The Secret to Plump, Juicy Raisins

For delicious oatmeal raisin cookies, the key is soaking raisins. Before mixing them into your dough, soak them in hot water for 5-10 minutes. This step makes raisins soft, tender, and full of flavor.

Raisin Soaking Method

To make raisins plump, put them in a bowl and cover with hot water. Let them soak for 5-10 minutes, then drain and dry them. Add these to your oatmeal cookie dough. This trick greatly improves your cookies’ texture and taste.

Types of Raisins to Use

Both regular and golden raisins are great for oatmeal cookies. Pick raisins that are fresh and plump. Avoid dried out raisins, as they won’t soften in baking. For the best taste, choose plump raisins and soak them well before adding to your raisin soaking technique.

“The secret to the perfect oatmeal raisin cookie is all in the raisins. Soaking them in hot water is a game-changer!”

Soft & Chewy Oatmeal Raisin Cookies

Get ready to indulge in the ultimate homemade oatmeal raisin cookie recipe! These chewy cookie texture treats are sure to become a family favorite. They’re packed with wholesome oats, plump raisins, and warm spices. These homemade cookies will melt in your mouth with every bite.

This recipe yields a generous 24 servings, with each delightful cookie clocking in at 204 calories. The preparation time is just 30 minutes, and the baking takes a mere 15 minutes. So, you’ll have freshly baked oatmeal raisin cookies ready to enjoy in under an hour.

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream the room-temperature salted butter with the brown sugar and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Beat in the eggs, one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract and molasses.
5. Gradually stir the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until just combined.
6. Fold in the old-fashioned rolled oats and juicy raisins.
7. Scoop the dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing the cookies about 2 inches apart.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the centers are still slightly soft.
9. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Enjoy these soft and chewy oatmeal raisin cookies warm from the oven or at room temperature. They’re the perfect treat for any occasion. Whether you’re packing them in a lunchbox, serving them at a gathering, or indulging in a cozy afternoon snack, they’re a hit.

“These cookies are an absolute delight! The combination of the chewy oats, plump raisins, and warm spices is simply irresistible.”

Step-by-Step Mixing Instructions

Making the perfect oatmeal raisin cookies begins with the right mixing. Follow these steps to get cookies that are irresistible every time.

Creaming the Butter and Sugar

Start by creaming the butter and sugars in a big bowl. Mix until it’s light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. This step is key for the cookies’ soft and chewy texture.

Combining Wet and Dry Ingredients

Then, add the egg and vanilla extract to the butter and sugar mix. Mix until it’s fully incorporated. In another bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients – flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Slowly add the dry mix to the wet ingredients, mixing just until they’re combined.

Adding Oats and Raisins

Lastly, add the plump raisins and old-fashioned oats to the mix. Don’t overmix at this point, as it can make the cookies tough. Chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking for thicker, chewier cookies.

“The secret to perfectly soft and chewy oatmeal raisin cookies is all in the mixing technique. Creaming the butter and sugars just right, then gently folding in the oats and raisins, is the key to baking success.”

Follow these mixing steps to bake the ultimate oatmeal cookie. It’s sure to impress family and friends.

Baking Tips for Perfect Results

To get the perfect soft and chewy oatmeal raisin cookies, pay close attention to detail. Follow these tips to make your cookies irresistibly delicious every time.

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Line your baking sheets with parchment paper for easy cookie removal.
2. Use a medium cookie scoop to make 1 1/2 oz (45g) balls. Place them about 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets.
3. Bake one pan at a time for 12-14 minutes. Rotate the pan halfway through. The edges should be light golden, and the center slightly underbaked.
4. Tap the pan on the oven rack before removing the cookies. This helps set the centers without overbaking.
5. Let the cookies cool completely on the baking sheet. Then, transfer them to a wire rack or airtight container.

By following these cookie baking tips and oven techniques, you’ll bake perfect oatmeal cookies every time.

“The secret to perfectly soft and chewy oatmeal cookies is all in the baking technique.”

Storage and Make-Ahead Options

Enjoy the delightful soft and chewy texture of these oatmeal raisin cookies for days to come. Proper cookie storage is key to maintaining their freshness and irresistible flavor.

Room Temperature Storage

These cookies can last up to 1-2 weeks at room temperature. Store them in an airtight container, like a cookie jar or resealable plastic bag. This prevents them from drying out.

For short-term storage, divide the cookies into smaller batches. This helps keep their texture optimal.

Freezing Instructions

If you want to freeze cookie dough or make-ahead cookies, you have options. The cookie dough can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months. To freeze, scoop the dough into balls, freeze until firm, then transfer to an airtight container.

When ready to bake, place the frozen dough on a baking sheet. Add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Baked cookies can also be frozen for up to 3 months. Cool the cookies completely before placing them in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag. Label the container with the storage date for easy reference.

“The original oatmeal raisin cookies recipe was crowned the ‘best cooky’ for the decade from 1900 to 1910.”

By mastering the art of cookie storage and freezing cookie dough, you can enjoy these delectable oatmeal raisin cookies anytime. Whether you’re prepping for the holidays or simply craving a homemade treat, you’re covered.

Recipe Variations and Substitutions

Baking oatmeal cookie variations and trying ingredient substitutions lets you make customized cookie recipes. The classic oatmeal raisin cookie is great, but you can also try new mix-ins and substitutions. This opens up a world of tasty options.

Instead of raisins, you can use cranberries, cherries, or apricots. Chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans add a nice crunch. For a chocolatey flavor, add semisweet chocolate chips or chunks.

To make the cookies healthier, use up to half all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour. Remember to add 1-2 tablespoons of milk to the dough. This helps because whole wheat flour is drier.

If you need to avoid eggs, use a flax egg as an egg substitute. Mix 1 tablespoon of ground flax seeds with 3 tablespoons of water. Let it sit for a few minutes until it thickens like gel.

Don’t be afraid to try different spice combinations. Adjust the cinnamon and nutmeg to your liking. Both rolled oats and quick oats work well, but rolled oats make the cookies chewier.

“The possibilities are endless when it comes to customizing oatmeal cookies. Have fun exploring different flavors and ingredient combinations to find your perfect match!”

Conclusion

This soft and chewy best oatmeal raisin cookies recipe is loved by all. It’s perfect for family gatherings or as a special homemade cookie recipe for the holidays. It has a great mix of flavors, plump raisins, and a texture that’s hard to resist. You can also make it your own by adding your favorite touches.

Whether you’re a pro at baking or just starting out, this crowd-pleasing dessert always turns out delicious. It has over 250 five-star reviews since 2017. This shows how much people love it and the happiness it brings to families everywhere.

So, get ready to bake, preheat your oven, and enjoy making these classic oatmeal raisin cookies. Each bite is a journey to a cozy, comforting place. Let the flavors take you there.